Lightweight karate uniforms:
- Common fabrics are 100% Cotton and a Polyester/Cotton blend. Avoid 100% Cotton as it shrinks more.
- Fabrics may have a standard, twill or ribbed weave. Standard has no pattern in the fabric; twill has very fine lines and is more durable; ribbed has distinctive lines and promotes better airflow through the fabric.
- Weights range from 5-10oz. 5-7oz is very light and easy to tear. 8-9oz is normal; 10oz begins to have a heavy feel.
- Lightweight uniforms are cheaper, but be careful – a cheap uniform may wear out faster, and not be cheaper in the long run.
Lightweight uniforms are great for those just starting out, or those serious about kumite (sparring) performance. They are more cost effective, do not weight you down, and are easy to wash and care for. Aim for a 8-9oz Poly/Cotton fabric.
Sapius Ignite lightweight karate uniforms use a 8oz pre-washed ribbed weave, polyester blend fabric. BUY NOW!
Heavyweight karate uniforms:
- The fabric is generally 100% Cotton Canvas. Canvas adds a distinct snap to your techniques, and looks more formal.
- One variation is Brushed Canvas, which is heavily brushed during its manufacture giving it a softer finish, and getting rid of the “cardboard” feel unbrushed canvas often has.
- Weights range from 11-20oz. 12 to 14oz is the most common, providing an excellent compromise between formal uniform shape and snap, and not being so heavy that it slows you down. The uniform can get a little heavy when it's full of sweat, but is thick enough to hold the sweat away the body. 15oz+ is very heavy, suited for formal occasions or heavy grappling.
- Heavyweight uniforms are more expensive, but are durable and last for longer.
Heavyweight uniforms are definitely the leading choice for long-term karate practitioners. They last much longer and keep sweat off your body much better than a lightweight uniform. Aim for a 11-12oz brushed canvas fabric.
Sapius Incarnate heavyweight uniforms use a pre-washed 12oz, 100% brushed cotton canvas fabric. BUY NOW!
